Pakistan’s Saleema Imtiaz became the first woman to be nominated for the ICC International Panel of development umpires said Pakistan Cricket Board(PCB) on Sunday.
“The journey has been filled with hard work and personal sacrifices, but now, standing at the cusp of this new chapter, it all feels worth it,” Imtiaz said in a statement released by the PCB.
“This isn’t just a win for me, it’s a win for every aspiring female cricketer and umpire in Pakistan. I hope my success motivates countless women who dream of making their mark in the sport. This moment reflects the growing influence of women in cricket and the PCB’s commitment to fostering that development.”
Saleema’s nomination on the panel means she is now eligible to officiate in women’s bilateral international matches and ICC women’s events.
Saleema’s daughter Kainat has represented the Pakistan women’s cricket team at the international level. “Ever since Kainat made her debut for Pakistan in 2010, my dream has been to represent my country at an international level,” she said.
“While I’ve had opportunities with the Asian Cricket Council, officiating at the highest level has always been the ultimate goal. I’m now focused on performing to the best of my abilities in both bilateral and ICC matches, and building my reputation as a reliable and respected match official,” she added.
Saleema joined the PCB’s women’s umpires panel in 2008 and has officiated in several Asian Cricket Council tournaments over the last three years.
Saleema’s first on-field appointment in a bilateral series will see her officiate the three-match T20 series between Pakistan women and South Africa women which begins at Multan on Monday.
(With agency inputs)
